Missouri Democrat showcases steel-covered 'combat Bible'

Missouri House candidate Tommy Sowers (D) touts his steel-covered "combat Bible" in his first TV ad, which was released Wednesday. Sowers, an Iraq war veteran, is challenging Rep. Jo Ann Emerson (R-Mo.), who has questioned his military service.

Emerson told the Southeast Missourian in a May interview that Sowers "never commanded anybody" during his time in the military.

Sowers has tried to blunt her attacks by defending his record and having retired Gen. Wesley Clark (D) issue a fundraising plea on his behalf.

The ad is airing on cable and being broadcast "all across" the 8th district for the next month, according to the Sowers campaign. It coincides with his making stops in the district's 28 counties during the next 28 days. The spot was produced by the Tennessee-based firm Fletcher, Rowley & Riddle.